Alzheimer’s families in Tennessee have a champion in Washington, D.C.! I would like to thank Congressman Steve Cohen for co-sponsoring the HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act. This move shows true understanding that Alzheimer’s is an unavoidable reality for families, as well as a budget-breaker for state and federal governments.

The cost for care for Alzheimer’s patients is being shouldered by taxpayers in every congressional district – including you and me. That can only change by investing in Alzheimer’s research and helping affected families find vital resources as early as possible. Alzheimer’s disease is the most expensive disease in the United States, costing Medicaid and Medicare systems $153 billion in 2015.

Congressman Cohen has led the way in our state, but now we need Congressman Stephen Fincher to join him in cosponsoring the HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act (S. 857/H.R. 1559). This landmark bill would provide Medicare coverage for care planning services for both the individual and the caregiver following a dementia diagnosis.

I encourage Congressman Stephen Fincher to stand up for our community in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Now more than ever, the leadership of our Congressional leaders is crucial to ending Alzheimer’s.

Care planning allows newly diagnosed individuals and their caregivers to learn about medical and nonmedical treatments, clinical trials opportunities, counseling and support services through organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association, and the importance of engaging in financial and long-term care planning. Let’s give newly diagnosed individuals and their families the tools that they need to prepare for the long road ahead!

Miriam Clay
Manager of Programs & Education
Alzheimer’s Association Mid South